He rose to prominence as a member of Duke Ellington's orchestra, with which he performed from 1929 to 1940. He also recorded his own sessions during this time, both freelance and with other Ellington sidemen. In 1940 he joined Benny Goodman's orchestra, then in 1941 formed his own orchestra, in which over the years he employed Charlie Parker, Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, Bud Powell, Eddie Vinson, and other important young players.
He began to play more rhythm and blues in the late 1940s. In the 1950s he toured with small groups and fell into obscurity. In 1962 he rejoined Ellington and stayed with the orchestra till 1974, after Ellington's death.
Just In Time
Cootie Williams and His Orchestra Lyrics
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Before you came, my time was running low
I was lost, the losing dice were tossed
My bridges all were crossed, nowhere to go
Now you're here and now I know just where I'm going
No more doubt or fear, I found my way
For love came just in time
You found me just in time
Mm, I was lost, the losing dice were tossed
My bridges all were crossed, nowhere to go
Now you're here and now I know just where I'm going
No more doubt or fear, I found my way
For love came just in time
You found me just in time
And changed my lonely life that lovely day
The song "Just in Time" by Cootie Williams and His Orchestra talks about finding love at the right moment, just before the singer's time was running out. The lyrics convey a sense of hopelessness and despair before the arrival of love, "I was lost, the losing dice were tossed, my bridges all were crossed, nowhere to go". However, the arrival of love changes everything for the singer who now knows exactly where he is headed, "Now you're here and now I know just where I'm going, no more doubt or fear, I found my way". The lyrics show the transformative power of love and the impact it can have on one's life. It brings optimism, direction, and a new purpose that the singer did not have before.
The song has a catchy tune and is sung in a lively, upbeat tempo that perfectly captures the joy and excitement of new love. The lyrics are simple and easy to understand, making it a relatable song for anyone who has found love when they needed it the most. This is a classic song that has stood the test of time and has been covered by many artists over the years. It continues to be a popular love song and an anthem for those looking for love.
Line by Line Meaning
Just in time, I found you just in time
I discovered you at the perfect time, when I needed you the most.
Before you came, my time was running low
My life was empty and I was running out of hope before you arrived.
I was lost, the losing dice were tossed
I was bewildered and had taken many bad chances in the past.
My bridges all were crossed, nowhere to go
I had exhausted all of my options and had no clear path forward.
Now you're here and now I know just where I'm going
Having you in my life has given me direction and purpose.
No more doubt or fear, I found my way
You have helped me overcome my doubts and fears and find my path in life.
For love came just in time
Love arrived when I needed it the most and saved me.
You found me just in time
You arrived when I was in desperate need of help.
And changed my lonely life that lovely day
You transformed my life from one of loneliness and emptiness to one of joy and fulfillment.
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Adolph Green, Betty Comden, Jule Styne
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Allan Oswald
Cootie Williams the best trumpet player ever!++